Tragedy struck the Berwyn community Tuesday afternoon when Nerissa Lee, assistant principal of Lincoln Middle School, and her mother, Joycelyn Everage, 76, were fatally shot in a violent episode that unfolded just outside the school. Lee's husband, Steven Lee, has been identified as the shooter who subsequently took his own life. The harrowing incident did not involve any of the Lincoln Middle School students, however, the proximity of the event left many shaken as the school was still active with staff and students at the time of the shooting just after 4 p.m., WGN-TV reports.
Police, who were already on the scene when the shooting started, witnessed a man firing into a vehicle before turning the weapon on himself. Superintendent Dr. Michelle Smith of Berwyn North School District 98 expressed her profound sorrow in a statement declaring, "It is with great sadness that I announce to you that Nerissa Lee, Assistant Principal at Lincoln Middle School, lost her life in yesterday's tragic shooting that occurred outside of Lincoln." In the wake of the incident, Lincoln Middle School was closed on Wednesday, with plans to reopen on Thursday and have counselors available for students and staff, according to the statement obtained by Chicago Sun-Times.
The family is grappling with the loss, caught in a whirlwind of grief and disbelief. Shana Everage, sister to Nerissa Lee, recounted to WGN-TV, "They're my family. It’s a horrible thing. I have a lot of emotions, I don’t know what to feel," The family had been aware of domestic issues leading up to the incident, including an altercation just days before the shooting. Everage's agony was palpable as she described her decision to not accompany her mother at the time, a choice that likely spared her life.
Students and the Berwyn community remember Nerissa Lee as a "great human being" who was invested in the success and well-being of her students. Former students shared memories of Lee's engaging teaching style and caring nature. Hailey Bedoy, a one-time student, told the Chicago Sun-Times, "She always had a bubbly personality," emphasizing her impact and dedication. Another former student, Hannah Zuniga, reflected on Lee's supportive demeanor, "She was always open to having a conversation or helping someone in need, and always checking in on us." They, along with other members of the school community, hope for a permanent remembrance to honor Lee's contribution to the school.
The Berwyn Police stated the importance of Lee to the community: "The impact of this loss is deeply felt not only within the school community but throughout Berwyn, Assistant Principal Lee was a dedicated educator and leader who touched the lives of countless students and staff members," as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times. The school and local authorities continue to work through the tragedy, offering support to those affected and addressing the deep fissures left by the violence in their community.
